Overview

Located in the heart of Oak Island, The Tipsy Tuna Bar & Grill offers a refreshing take on coastal casual dining. Nestled at 8520 E Oak Island Dr, this spot blends the comfort of a neighborhood bar with the charm of a seafood grill, making it a perfect destination for locals and visitors craving authentic flavors and a vibrant atmosphere.

The restaurant’s culinary focus shines brightest through its seafood-centric menu, where the Tuna Nachos serve as a standout starter, perfectly balancing crispy chips with fresh, sesame-crusted Ahi tuna. The Flounder Basket is another highlight—a generous plate of fried flounder complemented by tangy slaw, encapsulating the coastal spirit in every bite. Beyond seafood, offerings like the hearty half-pound cheeseburger and buffalo-style chicken tenders showcase a versatile palate, appealing to families and bar food aficionados alike.

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a lively yet welcoming space with plenty of natural light and screens tuned to local sports, effortlessly merging casual dining with upbeat social energy. The staff elevates the experience: attentive and friendly, they cultivate a sense of community. Names like Shelby, Tiffany, Brandy, and Olive are synonymous with genuine service, making every visit feel like catching up with friends. This personable approach complements the menu and atmosphere, creating an inviting retreat after a day on Oak Island’s shores.

The Tipsy Tuna doesn’t strive for fine dining sophistication but embraces its niche—a clean, energetic bar and grill where quality food meets reasonable pricing. It caters to a diverse audience, from families seeking relaxed meals to couples on evening outings and travelers looking for authentic local flavor without fuss. Merchandise like branded shirts and sweatshirts hint at a growing following, reflecting pride in the brand’s identity.

In essence, The Tipsy Tuna Bar & Grill is more than a seafood spot; it’s an experience marked by flavorful dishes, community spirit, and a genuine love for what they do. For anyone visiting Oak Island or in search of a dependable and lively eatery, it’s a destination worth adding to the rotation.


Amenities & Services

Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Atmosphere
Casual

What Customers Say

Matt Wright
Dec 3,2025
5/5
Service (Shelby) was attentive, prompt, and friendly - never let our drink go empty. 1/2lb cheese Burger was one of the best you can get in the area. Ruben and the BLT chicken salad wrap were also excellent. Our daughter (6) didn't like the kids fried shrimp, but I think it was her and not the food. Definitely will add Tipsy to our lunch rotation.
T Gillenwater
Dec 3,2025
5/5
My wife and I heard about Tipsy Tuna through other local friends and we decided to check it out one evening. We usually try to not go to Oak Island to eat during the summer, however this place is worth the trip. For those of us who knew this as Chasers will be pleasantly surprised as you walk through the doors. It’s well lit, TV’s everywhere and the food is fantastic. I had a flounder and shrimp basket my wife had a club. Tiffany one of the new owners was helping behind the bar. It very obvious her and her husband have poured their blood sweat and tears in this new restaurant/bar. The other bartender Brandy is very bubbly and has an upbeat demeanor even when they are swamped. Last but certainly not least was Olive also very friendly and probably hasn’t met a stranger. *** Make sure you ask her why she’s “TikTok” famous.”**** If you’re in town for a visit or live here this needs to be on your list to check out. Thanks for everything y’all. See you again soon.
Patrick Stilwell
Dec 3,2025
5/5
We ate here in October 2024 while on vacation and it was so good that we cant wait to go again in March when we get back to the island! Don’t expect fine dining, align your expectations - this is good bar food! It is clean, fast, and friendly staff! My wife and I ate here twice that one week we were on the island and may eat there our first night upon our return the month after next! We loved their chicken tenders tossed in buffalo sauce and the burger and fries are great too! Their ranch dressing is also great! We highly recommend The Tuna and to those about to dine, we salute you!!
Johnathan Vaughan
Dec 3,2025
5/5
They must have a lucky horseshoe with all the top shelf bourbons they have! I've been wanting to find Penelope Havana since its release with no luck. They had very reasonable prices and I had to try multiples! The Thursday special was club sammich or salad, so I got the club with onion rings. The bread was overly toasted and cut my mouth from being so crunchy but the taste and presentation were perfect! Definitely a great place to drop in at Oak Island for a quick bite and they had TVs all around with the hockey Stanley cup semi-finals on multiple screens.
Erin Curry
Dec 3,2025
5/5
We've been several times now when visiting the island. Tonight, we passed another island staple SJ, with the parking lot overflowing, but we'd already decided where we were going. I resigned myself to a wait, but when we arrived, there were available parking spots in the small lot, and lots of empty tables... I don't understand why. This place is doing everything right! Service is on point, staff is super friendly and the food rivals any on the island. Don't miss out on the tuna nachos, or the seafood basket. Skip the crowd and add this to your list of places to eat. I should keep it a secret, but I know how fickle off season can be on the island for restaurants, so please help us make sure this place becomes another staple on OKI!
Milledge Austin, IV
Dec 3,2025
5/5
My family and I went one evening while on vacation and we really enjoyed it. Great food, awesome portions, and it was even good for my picky 4-year-old. The waitress was friendly and checked in on us, the food came out just as we ordered and was delicious. I really liked how many tvs there were for watching the college softball and baseball games. A large group came in behind us and the staff did everything they could shy of moving people to accommodate them as close to each other as possible.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Thursday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Friday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Saturday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Sunday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
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